Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16, 2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.4k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Chueches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
“Philippine Emergency Medical Assistance Teams (PEMATs) were instructed to be on standby for deployment once international coordination protocols with affected countries are complete and request is received,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said in statement three emergency medical teams from the Philippines are ready to be sent to Myanmar and Thailand to help earthquake victims and their families.
PEMAT members are from Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital, Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium and Eastern Visayas Medical Center.
According to Herbosa, PEMATs underwent thorough assessment on their capabilities in clinical management, logistics, water, sanitation and hygiene.
They were also awarded World Health Organization Emergency Medical Team (EMT) badge proof that they are certified and recognized for international humanitarian deployment.
“All three PEMATs are classified as Type 1 Fixed EMTs, they can provide daylight hours care for acute trauma and non-trauma presentations and referrals,” said Herbosa.
PEMATs from DOH can also do ongoing health investigation or care and community-based primary care in an outpatient fixed facility.
Meanwhile, Philippine embassy in Myanmar expressed its readiness to help relocate or bring home any Filipinos affected Friday’s earthquake.
“Embassy is gathering current and credible information on status of all affected Filipinos in Myanmar in order to determine resources necessary to assist them, including deployment of team on ground to conduct welfare checks on them,” it announced.
“Those who require relocation or repatriation will also be assessed and assisted,” the Philippine embassy said in a post on its official Facebook page.
For emergencies, embassy can be reached through Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) hotline (+95 998 521 0991) or official Philippine embassy in Myanmar Facebook Messenger.
Philippine embassy is yet to release information if any Filipinos were hurt or killed in the earthquake but has advised Filipinos in Myanmar to remain calm and monitor updates from credible and verifiable sources of information.
3 He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.
4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.4k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
45-day campaign period for local bets kicked off
By Nidz Godino
“Do not ignore our notice to remove illegal campaign materials because we will issue show cause order preparatory for filing of disqualification case and election offense,” Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said as campaign period for local elections begins, poll body reminded candidates against violating campaign regulations, with Garcia warning that poll body will not hesitate to disqualify those who violate rules.
Garcia reminded local candidates to place their campaign materials in designated common poster areas, use biodegradable materials, voluntarily remove those illegally posted and abide by allowable campaign spending.
He reminded candidates that they are prohibited from attending or displaying their campaign posters during distribution of financial aid.
Garcia stressed distribution of welfare assistance, without first securing exemption from Comelec, is considered vote buying or abuse of state resources.
“Immediately we will disqualify, no ifs and buts,” he said.
Comelec also sees possible increase in election-related violence with start of local campaign season.
Garcia said poll body would do everything it can to maintain peace and order and ensure safe elections.
He added commission would order deployment of additional law enforcers in areas declared under Comelec control and identified as hotpots.
Comelec forged agreement with Department of Health, Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Philippine Red Cross to ensure safety of voters and those performing election duties.
Philippine National Police (PNP) also went on heightened alert as part of its security preparations for midterm polls.
Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, PNP spokesperson, said at least 176,250 or 75 percent of 235,000-strong police force are readily available for deployment during heightened alert.
Remaining 58,750 are on-call when there is need to increase number of police personnel on the ground.
“No one is allowed to file leave unless it is emergency in nature,” Fajardo said in virtual news briefing.
In beefing up security preparations, Fajardo explained campaign for local posts is known to be more heated than at national level.
“Those fighting for political bets knew each other, they are even relatives, friends or neighbors…this is why we need to intensify and strengthen our security coverage,” she said.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil ordered field commanders to sustain police visibility, particularly in providing area security for candidates during campaign sorties and other areas of engagement.
Marbil warned people who are planning to sow violence and intimidation to disrupt electoral process, saying PNP “would not tolerate any attempt to undermine our democracy.”
PNP has intensified intelligence gathering and expanded its presence in areas identified as election hotspots and those known to be with intense political rivalries.
In Pasig, local Comelec invited politicians to join and sign peace covenant to ensure orderly campaign and elections in the city.
Event was done in coordination with Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines–Joint Task Force.
Mayor Vico Sotto attended event along with most local candidates and wished them luck.
“May truth, fairness and peace prevail throughout the campaign and elections in 2025,” Sotto said.
For those living below minimum wage, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian said distribution of P26 billion in Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) continues following its exemption from election ban.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) released its new guidelines on AKAP distribution.
“It was given Comelec exemption. Its distribution will not stop just because of campaign period,” Gatchalian said, noting that it is “very specific” for those living below minimum wage.
“No referrals are needed…just go to nearest DSWD office…this guideline is now much more clearer and defined,” Gatchalian added as he warned politicians who want to take advantage of the program.
He warned that, with widespread use of digital technology, it would be very easy for netizens from all camps to document unlawful acts of politicians.
“For one, they can be easily disqualified,” Gatchalian said.
DSWD vowed not to let any politician use or take advantage of the program.
“Campaign rules are much more stringent now…rival watchers and volunteers, election watchdogs, civil society, media and practically anybody who has a cell phone are just waiting for you to make mistake,” Gatchalian said.
He advised public to report to DSWD any politicians found repacking relief goods and other items and replacing these with stickers bearing their names and faces.
“That is illegal…we have to warn them, those who repack our goods… punishable under the law because it is tampering with government property…nobody is authorized to open these boxes except beneficiary,” Gatchalian stressed.
He also refuted “misconceptions” that indigents can just go to any DSWD office and they will be given all kinds of financial assistance.
“There must be need, reason…you will be assessed…if you are below minimum wage, then you are qualified under AKAP… but our social workers have final say based on their assessment…it’s menu-based program…our ayuda always have reason like transportation, food, medicine, hospital bills, funeral details,” Gatchalian said.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30, 31, February 1, 2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.4k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
‘US will join allies to stop China aggression’
By J.Lo
“We will work with our allies and our partners to deter Communist Chinese and their aggression in Indo-Pacific, full stop,” United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
told Pentagon think tank Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu, Hawaii he was expected to affirm his nation’s security commitment to the Philippines and other US allies as he arrives today for his first official visit to the country to meet with his counterpart Gilbert Teodoro Jr.
Earlier this week, Hegseth voiced Trump administration’s resolve to maintain peace and protect its interest as well as of its allies in Indo-Pacific against China’s belligerence.
“By standing shoulder to shoulder with you, our allies and partners, we will put our enemies, our adversaries, those who stand against us on notice…each ally, each partner, each friend, contributes their own unique capabilities to regional deterrence,” he said.
During his two-day visit, Hegseth will meet with Teodoro at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
Hegseth said his engagements with allies were meant to strengthen partnerships toward shared vision for free and open Indo-Pacific.
On March 25, he met in Hawaii with civilian and military leaders from US Indo-Pacific Command.
In prior call with Teodoro, Hegseth emphasized importance of “reestablishing deterrence in South China Sea.”
“No one should question resolve of United States of America to defend our interests in Indo-Pacific and beyond, we will do this through deterrent power of strongest, most effective, most lethal fighting force in the world … supported by and in partnership with capable, like-minded allies and partners,” he said.
Malacañang, meanwhile, lashed back at China for implying that Philippines is “chess piece” and “mouthpiece” of another country ahead of visit of Hegseth.
“If China really believes and is concerned about peace and stability in the region, they should abide by international law, they should also respect sovereignty of each country… Philippines is no one’s chess piece, we are independent country,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said at press conference.
“Whatever we do, whatever project related to our military operations is up to us, no one should interfere…we are independent and no one should meddle in whatever decision our government will make,” Castro said.
She maintained that no country should meddle in Philippines’ policies and called on China to respect sovereignty of other countries.
At briefing earlier, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Philippines should “stop serving as other countries’ mouthpiece,” when asked to react to Hegseth’s Manila visit.
He said any defense cooperation between Philippines and other countries should not target any third party, harm its interest, threaten regional peace or escalate tensions. Guo added that facts “have repeatedly proven that nothing good could come out of opening the door to predator” and that “those who willingly serve as chess pieces will be deserted in the end.”
China is claiming almost entire South China Sea including areas within Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and continental shelf.
In 2016, arbitral court based in The Hague invalidated China’s maritime claims and affirmed Philippines’ sovereign rights over its exclusive economic zone. Chinese government refused to recognize ruling.
US has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to its treaty obligations to the Philippines, saying it stands “shoulder-to-shoulder” in defending its ally’s sovereign rights in South China Sea. Washington officials have also declared armed attack on Filipino armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including in South China Sea, would invoke United States’ mutual defense commitments.
Philippines, meanwhile, is also looking at boosting further country’s defense relations with Cambodia.
Teodoro made pronouncement during courtesy call by Cambodia’s secretary of state of the ministry of national defense Lt. Gen. Rath Dararoth, according to DND spokesman Arsenio Andolong.
During his meeting with Dararoth, Teodoro expressed optimism on strengthening defense ties between Philippines and Cambodia and underscored importance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges and in fostering mutual growth. He also relayed to Dararoth his invitation to Cambodia’s defense minister Tea Seiha to visit Philippines this year.
Andolong said Dararoth lauded successful and seamless conduct of fourth Joint Defense Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting held earlier.
Emphasizing value of cooperation among members of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Teodoro told Dararoth of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to explore critical areas of collaboration designed to benefit Southeast Asian countries.
He said despite different approaches to addressing common security threats, ASEAN solidarity remains unwavering.
Andolong said Dararoth echoed same sentiment, emphasizing potential for deeper bilateral cooperation between two countries as he extended his appreciation for Philippines’ continued support for Cambodia, particularly in education and training programs.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30, 31, February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.4k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
Congratulations to new set of interim officers of Luzon Convention of Southern Baptist Churches, Inc.-Servants of God in Christ Jesus Christian Ministries, Inc -moderator Dr. Enrico San Pedro Phd; Executive Secretary Jorge Lopez, Treasurer Rev. Nestor Sadim, Public Relation Officer Rev. Manuel Soliman
“Petitioners respectfully move for issuance of temporary restraining order, writ of preliminary injunction, and,or other injunctive remedies … to stop enforcement of 2025 GAA,” petitioners 1Sambayan Coalition, Sanlakas, former Associate Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales, economics associate professor Cielo Magno, constitutional law professor Dante Gatmaytan and physician Ma. Dominga Cecilia Padilla have asked Supreme Court to issue temporary restraining order on implementation and disbursement of funds for Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP).
They argued it mirrors pork barrel scheme and program’s inclusion in 2025 national budget is unconstitutional.
In 92-page petition filed before high court , petitioners are seeking temporary restraining order to prevent government agencies from enforcing some line items under P6.326 trillion budget until final resolution is reached.
Petitioners are also seeking certiorari and prohibition, asking court to determine whether there was grave abuse of discretion in approving the program and to bar respondents from proceeding with its implementation if found unlawful.
AKAP, implemented by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), provides financial aid to “near-poor” minimum wage earners.
Since 2025 budget hearings, program has faced criticism, with some lawmakers and Vice President Sara Duterte alleging it is being used for vote-buying. Questions have also been raised about its implementation, particularly whether lawmakers have say in selecting beneficiaries.
Amid controversy, executive branch decided to have Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) oversee disbursement of program’s P26-billion budget.
At the same time, it has prompted petitions like this challenging its constitutionality, stating program lacks safeguards in its post-enactment phase and that administrative regulations alone are insufficient.
DSWD previously denied claims AKAP is form of pork barrel, saying public officials are not involved in choosing beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, respondents are Senate, House of Representatives, Office of the Executive Secretary, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Department of Finance (DOF).
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) was also named as respondent, with petitioners contesting that its budget is unconstitutional for being largest, exceeding allocations for education agencies such as Department of Education (DepEd).
Petition also flags discrepancies in published 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA), noting DPWH’s total appropriation remains at around P1.113 trillion higher than reported final of about P1.008 trillion despite vetoes made by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. under the agency.
Petition also urges Congress to convene special session, if not already in session, to pass supplemental budget addressing funding deemed shortages in education sector and restoring government subsidy for Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).
Previous petition filed by Duterte camp also challenges constitutionality of Congress approving zero subsidy for PhilHealth and allocating smaller budget for education sector compared to DPWH.
Latest petition raises similar arguments, asserting Universal Healthcare Act mandates government funding for PhilHealth in GAA and that education budget for 2025 should exceed that of DPWH.
Office of the Solicitor General has responded to previous petition filed, arguing that it should be dismissed. This petition also challenges constitutionality of blank line items found in bicameral conference committee report.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16, 2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Probe finds ‘violations’ in Duterte arrest
By Nidz Godino
“There is no indication that ICC even requested for surrender of FPRRD after his provisional arrest…there is likewise no indication that ICC requested extradition after arrest of FPRRD,” Sen. Imee Marcos’ said Philippine government had “comprehensive plan” to arrest former president Rodrigo Duterte and cooperate with International Criminal Court (ICC) despite questions of sovereignty and “glaring violations” of Duterte’s rights as accused.
These were findings contained in Marcos’ preliminary report following her Senate foreign relations committee investigation on “lack of due process” in Philippine government’s turnover of Duterte to The Hague for his drug war-related crimes against humanity case.
Marcos read out initial report in press briefing at Senate, even though it showed flip flopping positions of her brother President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. about ICC jurisdiction since country’s withdrawal from Rome Statute, founding treaty established ICC.
Senator Marcos said three findings of her hearing are: “Philippines had no legal obligation” to arrest Duterte and turn him over to The Hague; “Philippine government decided to assist ICC to arrest FPRRD;” and “there were glaring violations of FPRRD’s rights.”
Marcos claimed that there was “no red notice” because Philippine government only enforced ICC’s arrest warrant based on “unverified diffusion notice” sent by ICC to International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).
Marcos also claimed that there was no Philippine obligation to turn over Duterte to The Hague because diffusion notice states it was only for “provisional arrest” instead of “arrest and surrender.”
“Emphasis should be given on Administration’s narrative that they will be compelled to honor ICC’s request if Interpol transmits red notice to Philippine authorities…it was admitted during public hearing that there is no red notice,” she added.
But ICC’s diffusion notice sent to Interpol is classified “red” for “wanted” individual such as Duterte, means it is equivalent to Interpol “Red Notice,” said Philippine Center on Transnational Crime executive director Anthony Alcantara during hearing. PCTC supervises Interpol-National Center Bureau (NCB)-Manila.
“Wanted persons red diffusion” is notice “circulated to arrest, detain, or restrict movement of convicted or accused person… and checked for compliance by Notices and Diffusions Task Force,” Interpol said in its website.
Meanwhile, Interpol Red Notice aims to “seek location and arrest of persons wanted for prosecution or to serve sentence.”
In claiming Philippine government helped ICC arrest Duterte, Marcos cited admission of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla in Bilyonaryo News Channel interview that there was planning involved with the President and National Security Adviser Eduardo Año to carry out arrest.
But during hearing, Remulla denied existence of alleged “core group” behind Duterte’s arrest, as he also invoked executive privilege.
Remulla also said they only talked about “rumors” of Duterte’s arrest warrant. This prompted Marcos to say in her report: “supposed ‘group effort’ was only based on rumors is incredible.”
“This attempt to cover up what was already aired on media indicates all the more that comprehensive plan to arrest FPRRD was already in place even before March 11,” Marcos said, adding that there was police deployment ahead of release of ICC warrant.
In claiming Duterte’s rights were violated, Marcos said due process was not followed because “no warrant was issued by Philippine court” and that “arrest did not fall within exceptions to warrantless arrest.”
“Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla impliedly admitted that no effort was made to get any warrant from Filipino court.,, Constitutional safeguards for right to liberty of abode were not observed…no court order was issued mandating that FPRRD be taken out of the Philippines against his will,” she said.
Marcos said Duterte was also deprived of right to be visited by immediate members of his family, when police blocked his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, from going near him when he was taken into custody at Villamor Air Base.
Marcos cited that this right is enshrined under Republic Act 7438, defined certain rights of persons arrested, detained, or under custodial investigation.
Seeking temporary release of former president Duterte could open floodgates of other issues, including possible freeze order on his assets and recognition of other directives of ICC, which has no jurisdiction over the Philippines, Malacañang said.
Legal team of Duterte, now under custody of ICC in The Hague over alleged crimes against humanity, has raised possibility of applying for interim release pending trial. Persons who are released temporarily should comply with certain conditions, including attending court proceedings, according to ICC spokesman Fadi El Abdallah.
In press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro raised number of questions with regard to possible move to secure Duterte’s interim release, noting that ICC has no jurisdiction over Philippines.
“Does it mean that we have to recognize that ICC has jurisdiction over Philippines… I believe family of former President Duterte is asking and praying to Supreme Court that government should not cooperate with ICC…so, it means that if we will not cooperate with ICC, even that prayer or that manifestation of ICC, we will not take cognizance of that, although, that’s hypothetical, let us say we will cooperate with ICC in terms of interim release…then all other issues will be opened… possible freeze order on Duterte assets will also be opened…would Duterte family want us to cooperate with ICC to search for all of their assets, whether hidden or not?” Palace press officer said.
Abdallah said issuance of freeze order may happen at any stage of legal proceedings.
Pressed if Marcos is open to interim release for humanitarian reasons, Castro replied: “I will ask those who proposed that should Philippines accept jurisdiction of ICC…will Duterte camp withdraw petition they filed before Supreme Court stating that we should not cooperate with ICC…will they accept all orders of ICC…will we recognize freezing of their assets…all these we have to ask,” she said, adding that all actions related to Duterte’s case should start from his family since they are ones with pending petitions before high court.
Meanwhile, Malacañang maintained administration is not hiding anything about arrest of former president Duterte but some sensitive matters cannot be made public.
“Executive privilege is rooted from separation of powers, so there will be instances, including issues concerning national security, diplomatic relations, military affairs and internal deliberations within executive branch, that information will not be publicized, so, there will be undue encroachment by one branch of government over another…so we are not hiding anything…there are instances that some of the things discussed that cannot be made public,” Castro said.
Castro said “That will be Sen. Marcos’ opinion if she talks to Duterte supporters…but if we talk to other experts like Justice Antonio Carpio, Attorney Joel Butuyan and others who already spoke about RA (Republic Act) 9851, her view on the issue would change, we only complied with law and our obligation with Interpol…if there are other views, that may be her personal view… nothing personal here”
Akbayan party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña asked camp of former president Duterte to stop likening the latter to the late martyred Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr.
“Camp of Rodrigo Duterte should stop likening him to Ninoy Aquino and his family, as well as absurd notion that his supposed death could secure his daughter’s place in Malacañang, they are not too advance in thinking and they are also delusional… mass murderer’s death does not make president especially if inheritance left is blood, betrayal and lack of sense of accountability,” Cendaña said.
“If Duterte camp believes their brand of leadership-by-body-count will be rewarded with political sainthood, they are sorely mistaken,” he added.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
‘Upper chamber can start processing pleadings on Sara impeachment’
By Nidz Godino
Even if the Senate has not formally convened as an impeachment court, it can allow the exchange of official communications and other administrative matters, a member of the House prosecution team said.
“We want to speed up the process of the pleadings. So when the Senate convenes, all of us will be ready and all the pleadings dispensed with,” Iloilo Rep. Lorenz Defensor said. “We have seen how the Senate works very hard. Even during their break, they can conduct committee hearings. Some of them, even during the campaign period, are still working.”
Defensor, in an interview on ANC, defended the motion they filed asking senators to issue a writ of summons and compel Vice President Sara Duterte to answer the case.
“We want them to issue it now. It will expedite the process, especially with the pleadings,” he said, adding that it would allow both sides to complete their pleadings before the trial formally begins on June 2.
The move to have Duterte refute the seven Articles of Impeachment is anchored on Rule 7 of the Senate Rules of Impeachment, which provides a non-extendible 10-day deadline for the impeached official to file an answer.
Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, House lead prosecutor, believes that the Senate can start the impeachment trial, noting that the chamber even conducted an inquiry into the March 11 arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
“We want to speed up process of pleadings…so when Senate convenes, all of us will be ready and all pleadings dispensed with,we have seen how Senate works very hard…even during their break, they can conduct committee hearings…some of them, even during campaign period, are still working,” Iloilo Rep. Lorenz Defensor said even if Senate has not formally convened as impeachment court, it can allow exchange of official communications and other administrative matters. Defensor defended motion they filed asking senators to issue writ of summons and compel Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio to answer the case.
“We want them to issue it now…it will expedite the process, especially with pleadings,” he said, adding that it would allow both sides to complete their pleadings before trial formally begins on June 2.
Move to have Duterte refute seven Articles of Impeachment is anchored on Rule 7 of Senate Rules of Impeachment, provides non-extendible 10-day deadline for impeached official to file answer.
Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, House lead prosecutor, believes Senate can start impeachment trial, noting that chamber even conducted inquiry into March 11 arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Teodoro can still run for congressman
By J.Lo
“Until there is no final court judgment in the case he is facing, he will remain candidate, his name will stay in ballot,” Commission on Elections Comelec Chairman George Garcia said despite his suspension by ombudsman for alleged misuse of public funds, Marikina Mayor Marcelino Teodoro may still run for congressman of city’s first district.
Garcia said Office of the Ombudsman’s suspension order against Teodoro has no effect on his congressional bid.
Poll chief, however, said suspension may have political impact on Teodoro’s candidacy.
On March 21, ombudsman suspended Teodoro and 18 other Marikina officials for six months without pay in connection with alleged misuse of P130 million in Philippine Health Insurance Corp. funds.
Anti-graft body found “strong evidence” against Teodoro and other respondents.
Also suspended were Marikina Vice Mayor Mario Andres, members of city council, city treasurer Nerissa San Miguel, city accountant Erlinda Gonzales, assistant city budget officer Jason Nepomuceno and council secretary Noralyn Tingcungco.
Meanwhile, police are monitoring peace and order situation in Marikina following Teodoro’s suspension.
Eastern Police District director Col. Villamor Tuliao said members of mobile force battalion are on standby and ready for deployment.
Tuliao said there has been no protest from Teodoro’s supporters as of yesterday.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City, Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16, 2025, Baguio City
Congratulations to 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Hse detains Bauan Mayor Dolor for defying summons
By Nidz Godino
Bauan, Batangas Mayor Ryanh Dolor will remain in custody until House committee on Public Accounts concludes its hearings.
Police authorities apprehended Dolor on Thursday, March 27, after he returned from United States.
He was taken into custody by House Sergeant-at-Arms retired police Major General Napoleon Taas upon arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 at 12:08 in the morning.
Taas was accompanied by airport police, Bureau of Immigration (BI) officials, and Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG).
He served Dolor with contempt and detention order issued by House Committee on Public Accounts.
Panel has been investigating alleged misuse of public funds in Bauan local government and issues in its transactions with water concessionaire Aquadata Inc. in Batangas.
Commission on Audit (COA) flagged Bauan’s contract with Aquadata, deeming it legally and financially unsound due to firm’s failure to meet prequalification requirements.
Aquadata has supplied water to Bauan since 2013 and to San Pascual since 2015.
House panel issued contempt and detention order on March 17 after Dolor repeatedly refused to attend its hearings without legally or reasonably justified excuse.
He received three invitations but submitted excuse letters for his absence. Panel then issued show-cause order and subpoena, compelling him to justify his absence and explain why he should not be penalized.
Panel later learned that Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas had approved Dolor’s travel authority for US trip from March 11 to March 26 for medical treatment or procedures.
For the committee, travel authority would have been considered legal and reasonable if it had included medical records or specific justification in excuse letter.
Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores (Bukidnon, 2nd District) said during hearing timing of travel authority was suspicious, as it coincided with scheduled hearings.
Meanwhile, Rep. Romeo Acop (Antipolo, 2nd District) also discovered Aquadata president Joseph Yu and vice president Jonathan Yu were overseas during Dolor’s absence.
Both have been cited in contempt and ordered detained by public accounts committee.
Get well soon Nanay Angelita Santiago-Lopez, Happy 91st birthday Nanay
No to SOGIE bill
Supports Fire Prevention Month March
supports Women Month March
congratulations Marked Men for Christ Philippines 565th batch Seminar, January 30,31,February 1,2025, Kabaleyan Cove, San Carlos City,
Pangasinan, looking forward to next batch July 16,2025, Baguio City. Congratulations to 18.3k views “Komedya O Komida” 6th edition and 2k views “Komedya O Komida” 7th edition of our very own J.Lo
Family of the late Ilocos Sur Gov. Efren Rafanan Sr. appreciates everyone joined them in their bereavement
PM for any hospital discharge problem
Philippines rejoining Rome Statute, not a word
By Nidz Godino
“During our last conversation with the President, we asked him about that in person and he just smiled and he told me that what I should say is nothing has been discussed with regard to that,” Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.merely smiled when asked whether Philippines would rejoin Rome Statute, treaty created International Criminal Court (ICC), now has custody of former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Speaking to Palace reporters, Castro said there is nothing to report yet about the matter.
Calls for Philippines to rejoin treaty mounted after arrest of Duterte over alleged crimes against humanity this month.
Philippines ratified statute in 2011, but Duterte, whose drug war left more than 6,000 suspects dead, withdrew the country from the treaty in 2019.
Duterte’s camp argues his arrest was illegal because Philippines is no longer party to Rome Statute.
Castro refuted this at recent press briefing, saying Supreme Court had ruled ICC has jurisdiction over all crimes committed before withdrawal from the treaty.
As some sectors raise possibility of ICC issuing freeze order on Duterte’s assets, Malacañang said there is no commitment yet from Philippines to follow such directive because of the issue on jurisdiction.
“When it comes to alleged incoming freeze order to be issued by ICC, there is no commitment on our part, on the part of administration, if we will comply with any order issued by ICC, considering ICC as of the moment has no jurisdiction over Philippines,” Castro said.
Earlier this month, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, one of the complainants accused Duterte of crimes against humanity, said ICC may order seizure or freezing of former president’s properties as part of its legal process.
Citing rules of the tribunal, Trillanes said proceeds of crime should not benefit anyone and such assets would be covered by seizure order.
ICC spokesman Fadi El Abdallah said issuance of freeze order “can happen at any stage” of legal proceedings.
Castro previously said Marcos administration would leave it up to Anti-Money Laundering Council to deal with matters related to possible freezing of Duterte’s assets to provide reparations for victims of his drug war.
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